A record crowd of friends and families gathered at Boise State University May 16 to honor the largest graduating class in school history. About 1,200 graduates participated in the formal ceremony at Taco Bell Arena, while 2,082 were eligible for 2,204 degrees/certificates, with 548 eligible for honors: 80 summa cum laude, 157 magna cum laude and 311 cum laude.
The ceremony began with the traditional playing of “Pomp and Circumstance,” the presentation of colors and the national anthem, followed by introductory remarks by President Bob Kustra, a welcome from State Board of Education President Milford Terrell and recognition of new faculty emeriti by Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Sona Andrews.
Kustra returned to the podium to introduce and congratulate Idaho icon Bethine Church, who accepted an honorary doctorate. The widow of former U.S. Sen. Frank Church, she is known as the matriarch of the Idaho Democratic Party, where she has been an active force her entire adult life. Before Church took the stage, Kustra explained that honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals of outstanding distinction when it comes to scholarship, creativity, public service, education and human welfare and that many nominations are submitted for consideration. Of Church’s nomination, he said, “I am most privileged and excited to accept it.”
Church delighted the crowd with narrative snapshots of her rich life, from learning the tango to watching Frank play pool with Marlon Brando. She expressed her care for the achievements of Boise State and its graduates, pointing out that her son Chase is an alumnus and that her grandson Andrew is an incoming freshman. Reminiscing about her own experience at Boise Junior College, Church said the challenges America faced then were as great as those of the present day.
“Despite the current economic and foreign policy challenges, I want to assure today’s graduates that you face a bright future with endless possibilities. So make no small plans. Think globally,” she said. “Grab all of the opportunities that come your way and let them take you on a lifelong journey of adventure. And remember; never be afraid to take a chance on life and love.”
Student speaker Hailey Wilson echoed and embodied that message with her own story of overcoming adversity. Having grown up on Idaho’s Nez Perce Reservation, she was told by many that the lack of resources in her community ensured she would never have the ability or opportunity to do great things. Now a Top 10 Scholar and student leader with a degree in health science studies and a dream of becoming a rural doctor, she is living proof that a positive attitude is more powerful than any circumstance.
“Your attitude will dictate your life,” Wilson said. “I chose to believe I could succeed.”
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Media Contact: Erin Ryan, University Communications, (208) 426-4910, erinryan@boisestate.edu
Boise State University is “The New U Rising” with record student enrollment, new academic buildings, additional degree programs and a growing research agenda. Learn more at www.boisestate.edu.
